Missionaries

FAQ

Vision

Our vision is to see Toronto renewed spiritually, and culturally and made into a great city in every way. We long for Toronto to become a place where grace and mercy reign, where peace is practiced and lived out, and where racial, ethnic, and socio-economic differences are removed by the power of the gospel.

Our vision is rooted in the good news that Jesus is lord of the city, the saviour and redeemer of the city, and the coming judge of the city. We long to see Him worshipped and cherished in every part of the city.

THE GOSPEL CHANGES EVERYTHING

We believe the gospel completely transforms not only our lives, but also how we view all of life. It changes how we view ourselves: we learn to admit that we are more sinful and selfish than we could have imagined. It changes how we view God: we learn to marvel that we are more loved and forgiven than we could ever dare hope. It transforms how we view others: as divine image-bearers of incredible value and dignity. From this core value flows all other values.

THE GOSPEL CREATES A CITY WITHIN THE CITY

The gospel creates what philosopher Augustine called a new city within the existing city: “the City of God.” In this city, mercy triumphs over judgment; collaboration replaces competition; equality replaces elitism; and people have intrinsic dignity, regardless of their station or standing in life. Love for God and others is the primary motivation for all that we do– in work, play, and rest. The new city becomes a sanctuary for those tired of or bruised by the brokenness of the old city. The new city inspires the old city by demonstrating that there is, indeed, a better way to live. The new city becomes a magnet for those who are seeking the peace of God in the midst of the tumult of the streets. The new city becomes a light where the glory of God, in the face of Christ, shines into our lives.

Values

Values

These five values drive the decisions we make. We are:

GOSPEL-CENTERED

We believe that the gospel is not only the way into the Christian faith, but also the way by which we grow and live out our faith.

“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.” Titus 2:11-12

MISSIONAL

Our central mission is to proclaim the gospel message, which changes everything. We engage with culture, graciously defending the claims of Christ and relevantly challenging existing cultural misconceptions about Christianity.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.” Luke 19:10

PRAYERFUL

We believe that only God can change our lives and the city we love. Above any programs or strategies, we look to God to move in powerful ways.

“Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stays awake in vain.” Psalm 127:1

MERCIFUL

We seek to emphasize the call of Christ to “remember the poor.” We partner with others to minister mercy and justice in Toronto.

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter– when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?” Isaiah 58:6-7

CITY-POSITIVE

God made the city and made it to be a place of refuge, creativity, and beauty. We are a church that celebrates the arts, professions, and cultural expressions of the city, even as we point to the one who is the source of all their beauty.

“Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Jeremiah 29:7